Republican Congresswoman Harriet Hageman stood firm during a tense town hall this week, pushing back against criticism of entrepreneur Elon Musk’s DOGE initiative, which aims to expose waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government.
At the event, held in Wheatland, frustrated constituents challenged Hageman over federal spending and questioned the role of private citizens like Musk in promoting transparency and accountability in Washington.
Hageman: “We’re Protecting Taxpayer Dollars”
Pressed on what Congress is doing to rein in reckless spending, Hageman pointed to targeted budget reforms. “DOGE is reviewing agency budgets, and we’re allocating funds with clear intent,” she said. “That’s why we made sure those dollars go toward supporting our enlisted men and women—not wasteful programs.”
Her comments drew both support and skepticism from the crowd, some of whom questioned the legality and effectiveness of Musk’s involvement.
Military Veteran Questions Fraud Claims
One retired military officer, identifying himself as a Republican who supports bipartisanship, pressed for specific examples of fraud: “What company? What organization? What individuals are being held accountable?”
Hageman responded by pointing to USAID spending, calling it a prime example of “fraudulent misuse of taxpayer funds.”
“This is what it is—fraudulent spending masked as government aid,” she said. “We are targeting waste, fraud, and abuse, just like we said we would.”
Crowd Pushes Back, But Hageman Stays the Course
Despite interruptions and audible boos from some in the audience, Hageman doubled down. “Wasteful spending is fraud when it lacks oversight,” she stated.
Some constituents disagreed, accusing her of conflating poor spending choices with criminal fraud. But Hageman clarified: “It’s all connected—when billions go out the door with no accountability, taxpayers pay the price.”
Standing Up for Conservative Values and Fiscal Responsibility
Hageman acknowledged the tension in the room: “I know there are folks here who don’t like me. That’s fine. But many of you came here to hear the truth, and that’s what I’m offering.”
Earlier in the week, Hageman faced similar criticism during a town hall in Laramie, where concerns over Musk’s watchdog initiative and federal cuts were also front and center.
Still, Hageman remains committed to conservative principles, fiscal restraint, and standing alongside innovators like Elon Musk who are challenging the Washington status quo.